COLLINSVILLE, Ill. – Hard economic times may cause someone to hold off on paying something that is due each month.
And that may include the electric and gas bill.
“Just as a normal everyday citizen, trips to the grocery store are more painful. All of the prices are up, and I think people are feeling that,” says Melanie Brown, Ameren’s Manager of Credit and Collections.
Brown says Ameren is introducing a flexible payment plan option for those who have fallen behind on their bill.
For those wanting to enroll, they would make a down payment of 10% of what is owed. The rest of the amount would be divided evenly up to 18 months.
“This helps them take control of their bill, avoid disconnection, keep connected to essential service, we need electricity,” Brown said. “And this plan can help them do that.”
Brown says those wanting to enroll have until April 30th to take advantage of the 10% down payment. After that, the amount increases to 25%.
State and federal grants are also available to help, including Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) grants for qualified customers.
